If a person has knee pain, the doctor will ask about personal and family medical histories. They will then perform a full physical examination and order diagnostic tests.

The doctor will also ask:

when and where the person is experiencing pain and stiffness

how this affects their daily life

whether they are taking any medications

The doctor will examine the joints, test their overall range of motion, and check for damage. They will pay close attention to any areas that are tender, painful, or swollen.

MRI scans and joint fluid tests can help detect early signs of OA. The doctor may perform a joint aspiration, which involves removing some fluid with a needle and sending it to a laboratory for testing.

magnetic pulse therapy, though there is a lack of research to confirm its effectiveness

lateral wedge insoles

supplements of glucosamine, chondroitin, or both

needle lavage, which involves inserting a needle into the joint and injecting a saline solution

However, the AAOS either do not recommend these remedies or note that a lack of evidence supports their safety and effectiveness.

Stem cell therapy

Researchers have been investigating whether stem cell therapy can regenerate cartilage in people with OA.

However, a number of challenges remain. For example, the therapy is expensive, a person may have to receive several rounds before they see results, and the treatment may be ineffective if a person’s body mass index is over 35.

A 2018 meta-analysis looked at different ways doctors were using stem cells to treat OA and how this influenced long-term results. They concluded that the findings of high-quality studies were inconsistent.

OA of the knee develops when the cartilage in the knee joint wears away, leading to an overgrowth of the bone underneath. The cartilage becomes rough and breaks down, resulting in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint.

Excess weight puts extra pressure on the knees. Over time, this contributes to wearing down the cartilage.

Extra fat can also cause the body to produce cytokines, a type of protein. This can lead to widespread inflammation, and it can change the way that cartilage cells work.

Controlling blood sugar

High glucose levels can affect the structure and function of cartilage, and diabetes increases the risk of inflammation and cartilage loss.

In the U.S., more than 50 percent of people with diabetes also have arthritis.

Exercising regularly

Moderate exercise can help the joints stay flexible, strengthen the muscles that support the knees, and reduce the risk of many health conditions.

It may help to garden, walk, or swim for 30 minutes at a time, five times a week.

Anyone who has not exercised for an extended period, possibly due to difficulties with mobility, should ask a medical professional for advice about how to start.

Reducing the risk of injury

Cartilage that sustains damage from an injury is more likely to develop arthritis later.

Reduce the risk of tripping in the home, wear shoes that fit well, and use protective gear while playing sports to prevent injury.

Undergoing posture and bone alignment tests

A gait analysis and other tests can help doctors to assess bone alignment and posture. Some sources suggest that these can affect a person’s risk of developing OA.

Researchers say these changes do not occur until after the early stages of OA of the knee, and that they may be a result rather than a cause of the condition. However, they add that a better understanding of these changes might help prevent OA from progressing and help in treatment and rehabilitation.

Avoiding overuse

Some sports or professions involve repetitive motions of the knee joint, such as kneeling or squatting.

People who regularly lift more than 55 pounds may have an increased risk of OA. Jobs that put people at risk may include laying carpets and unloading trucks or ships.

Varying activities and getting enough rest between periods of work or exercise may help.

Getting help

To prevent OA from advancing, ask a doctor for advice about treatment and lifestyle changes when discomfort starts.